By Monica Dan & Paola Longobardi | Founder & Trustee(s)
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As we look back on the past year, our hearts are full of gratitude. Thanks to your generosity, the last year has been a year of transformation for our students at Volunteers Foundation Academy. The completion of our new school building last August has changed everything: the way our children learn, the way they play, and the way they feel about coming to school every day.
This August, our founders, Monica and Andrea, returned from Kenya where they had the joy of witnessing the 2025 school term beginning in this new phase of Volunteers Foundation Academy. Monica shared her experience with us in these words:
“When I walked into the new building on the first day of term, I was greeted by children full of smiles and energy. Their joy was contagious. They had missed their friends and the sense of belonging that school brings. The classrooms came alive with their presence and laughter, yet there was also a quiet confidence and focus during the lessons. In those moments, I felt once again the confirmation that the dream we had carried for so long had finally become reality. This school is more than walls and a roof - it is hope, safety, and opportunity.”
During her visit, Monica and Andrea also met with many of the parents. They spent time in lengthy conversations about planning for 2026 and the future direction of the school. The feedback was very positive. Parents spoke passionately about their desire for the Academy to thrive and to be part of the Volunteers Foundation journey of transformation. Their involvement give us great confidence as we take the next steps forward.
The sense of safety and security in the new building has blossomed into visible happiness - more smiles, more confidence, and more motivation to learn. And with this new environment, our academy has grown. Student numbers increased by 30% this year, opening doors for many more children in the community to access quality education. With this growth came extra currricular activities that have enriched the lives of our students:
Tailoring Club continued into its second year, giving students the chance to learn sewing - a simple but lifelong skill that builds both confidence and independence.
Dance sessions filled the school with laughter and movement, helping children release stress and recharge their spirits in the face of daily challenges.
Art activities became a cornerstone of learning. We believe that education is about more than tests and textbooks. Art is not a luxury; it is a vital part of our students’ success. As Picasso said, “Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life.” We see this every day as creative expression helps our students to focus, reduce stress, and build resilience. Our classrooms are full of artistic energy that awaits to be discovered, and students find their voices and unlocking their potential through creativity.
Academic performance overall has risen, as the calm and secure environment allows students to concentrate and engage more fully in their studies.
These are more than just activities. They are life-changing opportunities for children who face significant challenges every day. And they were only possible because of you.
Yet, while we celebrate these milestones, our journey is not finished. We now dream of completing the school by developing a dedicated sports area. On 20% of our 744sqm space, we plan to create a multipurpose surface where children can play five a side football, basketball, and other games, alongside a safe play area designed for our youngest learners aged four and five. Physical activity is essential to healthy growth, teamwork, and joy, and we want our students to have these opportunities every single day.
We are now fundraising for this next step, and we warmly invite you to continue this journey with us. Every gift - big or small - brings us closer to giving our children the complete, well-rounded education they deserve.
Thank you for believing in our children and for being part of their story. Your support is not just building classrooms - it is building brighter futures.
Monica & Paola and all at VF
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